Pulling Christmas crackers has become a much-loved festive ritual - but their paper construction and plastic contents makes them fairly wasteful, especially when you consider their short lifespan.
Happily, there are plenty of eco-friendly alternatives around, made with sustainably sourced and recyclable materials, as well as metal and fabric that can be reused year after year.
Best eco friendly Christmas crackers to buy in 2025
RSPB Eco-Friendly Christmas Crackers
Buy Christmas crackers from the RSPB (£18+)
These eco-friendly crackers from the RSPB have been made from totally recycled and recyclable paper that has been responsibly sourced, and contain a party hat, an interesting bird fact and a cute animal pin. What's more, buying from a charity is a great way of ensuring you have ethical crackers.
Browse Christmas crackers from the RSPB (£18+)
Sophisticate Pattern Eco Cracker Set
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These classy crackers feature 100% recycled and recyclable card and tencel ribbon made from sustainable and biodegradable wood pulp. Each one includes a classic bad joke, as well as a selection of gifts, including a shampoo bar, plastic-free tea bags and a wildflower seed ball.
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Six Reusable Christmas Kraft Crackers
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These clever crackers are made from Kraft board and have a space in the centre to pack with goodies. Simply place a snap inside, pull and the two halves will separate instead of tearing the paper, so they can be reused the next year. When they start showing signs of wear, just recycle or compost them before purchasing a fresh set.
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Robin Reed Eco Crackers
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These stylish red crackers would make a smart addition to traditional tablescapes on Christmas Day. Each one features a joke, a quiz and a classic paper hat inside, alongside tree decorations, handmade from paper.
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Small Personalised Eco Christmas Crackers
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This quaint set of crackers are smaller than normal, and include twine, which can be saved and reused in the garden. For an added personal touch, you can also have the names of your loved ones written on the barrel of the cracker.
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Six Eco Friendly Handmade Christmas Crackers
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For a pared back look, try this option made with recyclable card. Even the tape attaching the snap inside is compostable. The treats include bags of sweets, which have been heat sealed as opposed to using glue or plastic so they can be easily composted at home.
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Baroque Eco Friendly Christmas Cracker
Buy from Little Green Cracker Company (£45)
If you're after a traditional look, consider these elegant crackers, handmade in Devon. They're made with recyclable paper, as well as recycled plastic ribbon - plus, the printed design is created with vegetable ink.
Buy from Little Green Cracker Company (£45)
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